The inspiration of artist Esther Paterson, Euroka was an original ballet, written by Hermon Gill and composed by James Penberthy, who at the time was a former lieutenant in the Royal Australian Navy Volunteer Reserve and a 'rehabilitation student at the University Conservatorium, doing piano and composition' ('Euroka', The Argus, 17 September 1947, p.3).
The ballet was based on Indigenous mythology, although the specific source is obscure: the story 'tells how the Sun Spirit is enticed back to earth after departing in anger by a boomerang thrown round the world' ('Impressive Music in Australian Ballet', Argus, 18 September 1947, p.7).
First produced from Wednesday 17 September 1947, as part of the National Theatre Movement's season of ballet.
Writer: George Hermon Gill.
Composer: James Penberthy.
Choreographer: Jean Alexander.
Orchestra: from the University Conservatorium.
Conductor: James Penberthy.
Costume Designer: Barbara Newman.
Cast members included: Pat Martin (Euroka) and Jill Gregory (Owl).
